Ukraine: Training of first-aid instructors geared to emergencies

23-04-2014 News Release

On 21 April, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Ukrainian Red Cross Society launched a four-day train-the-trainer course in Kiev for Ukrainian Red Cross volunteers who will in future provide instruction in first aid.

Against the backdrop of the current situation in eastern Ukraine, the training aims to enhance the ability of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society to administer first aid. Ten members of the society's Kiev emergency response team, which was formed to administer first aid and provide other humanitarian services during the events that took place in the capital's Independence Square between November 2013 and February 2014, are participating.

"The participants in this course are skilled and experienced first-aid providers," said Taras Logginov, head of the Ukrainian Red Cross emergency response department. "However, we want them to also be able to train newly formed emergency response teams across the country."

The course, facilitated by an ICRC first-aid delegate, covers the organization and teaching of first-aid courses and includes practical exercises simulating medical response to emergencies.

Last month, Ukrainian Red Cross personnel in Kharkov and Donetsk attended training sessions, also co-organized by their society and by the ICRC, to develop their first-aid skills.

"Since the onset of the dramatic events in Kiev last November, the ICRC has been closely cooperating with the Ukrainian Red Cross by providing supplies as well as financial and technical support for its emergency personnel working in Independence Square," said Michel Masson, the new head of the ICRC delegation in Ukraine. "We are committed to continuing our cooperation in expanding the emergency response capabilities of the Ukrainian Red Cross in other parts of the country as well."